October Packing List for Juneau — What to Wear & Bring

Essentials

If you only pack a few things, pack these.

• High-performance waterproof rain jacketEssential

  October is Juneau's wettest month, with a staggering 23 days of precipitation on average, making a top-tier rain jacket absolutely essential.

• Waterproof rain pantsEssential

  In a month with 23 days of rain, keeping your lower body dry is just as important; rain pants are a must for any extended time outdoors in Juneau.

• Fleece and wool layersEssential

  The damp cold of a 48°F day in Juneau feels much chillier than the temperature suggests, requiring multiple layers of fleece or wool for warmth.

• Insulated waterproof bootsEssential

  To combat the cold and constant wetness of a Juneau October, insulated waterproof boots are the only appropriate footwear choice.

• Thick wool socksEssential

  Pack many pairs of thick wool socks to ensure your feet stay warm and dry, as it can be difficult to dry things out in Juneau's damp climate.

• Warm, waterproof glovesEssential

  Your hands will thank you for waterproof gloves during a walk along the rainy downtown boardwalks when temperatures hover around 48°F.

• Fleece-lined beanieEssential

  A warm hat is critical for protecting you from the wind and cold rain that is a near-constant feature of October in Juneau.

Clothing

• High-performance waterproof rain jacketEssential

  October is Juneau's wettest month, with a staggering 23 days of precipitation on average, making a top-tier rain jacket absolutely essential.

• Waterproof rain pantsEssential

  In a month with 23 days of rain, keeping your lower body dry is just as important; rain pants are a must for any extended time outdoors in Juneau.

• Fleece and wool layersEssential

  The damp cold of a 48°F day in Juneau feels much chillier than the temperature suggests, requiring multiple layers of fleece or wool for warmth.

• Thermal long underwearRecommended

  As average lows dip to 38°F, a base layer of thermal underwear will provide crucial warmth for any outdoor exploration near the Mendenhall Glacier.

Footwear

• Insulated waterproof bootsEssential

  To combat the cold and constant wetness of a Juneau October, insulated waterproof boots are the only appropriate footwear choice.

• Thick wool socksEssential

  Pack many pairs of thick wool socks to ensure your feet stay warm and dry, as it can be difficult to dry things out in Juneau's damp climate.

• Ankle gaitersRecommended

  October brings 23 rainy days in Juneau along with falling leaves that make trails on Douglas Island and Mount Roberts slippery — gaiters add protection from mud and wet debris.

Accessories

• Warm, waterproof glovesEssential

  Your hands will thank you for waterproof gloves during a walk along the rainy downtown boardwalks when temperatures hover around 48°F.

• Fleece-lined beanieEssential

  A warm hat is critical for protecting you from the wind and cold rain that is a near-constant feature of October in Juneau.

• Waterproof backpack or dry bagRecommended

  With 23 days of precipitation, you need a reliable way to keep your electronics and valuables dry while exploring Juneau.

Gear

• Reflective gearOptional

  With decreasing daylight and overcast skies, wearing a piece of reflective gear can increase your visibility and safety when walking around Juneau.

• ThermosOptional

  Bringing a warm beverage in a thermos is a great way to stay warm during a chilly, damp walk on a trail in the Tongass National Forest.

• Dry bags or waterproof stuff sacksRecommended

  October in Juneau averages 23 precipitation days; dry bags protect electronics and documents during Mendenhall Glacier trail hikes or rainy downtown excursions.